The results of a public consultation will soon be known and Dorchester Town councillors will decide whether they are to confiscate five playing fields and recreation grounds in the town and hand them over to Magna Housing.

The sites proposed were identified as underused on the back of a selffulfilling drive-by survey undertaken during working hours, and which shows the inspector was on occasions in more than one place at the same time.

This survey lacks any credibility. Publicity for the consultation was minimal, with just small posters attached to the playing field railings and leaflets only posted at houses in the immediate vicinity in such a way one can only wonder if the town council and Magna really wanted a representative response.

It was solely because of a strong residents’ social media campaign and the resulting press comment that any significant numbers attended. At the consultation, participants were being asked how many houses they might wish to see on Elizabeth Place, omitting any mention that this small playing field had a restrictive covenant which prevents its use for any purpose other than its present use, the covenant being for the benefit of adjoining households.

Also avoided was any mention of town council representations leading to past planning refusals.

To further compound issues, the remit of the town council’s policy committee is to ensure the maximum possible value for money is achieved, yet they seek to give this pubic land to Magna.

GERALD DUKE

Dorchester West Ward Town and District Councillor